By Judy Vorfeld
Want to know how to write engaging headlines? Much depends on the audience. If you're writing headlines or headings for a business, you'll probably avoid being cutesy. But cutesy might work well for headings in an informal ezine or newsletter.
In any event, aim for bright, attention-grabbing headings. Think "action verbs." Take a look at what The Arizona Republic published a while ago. My comments are in parentheses.
1. Twang with a bang
Glendale gig highlights marriage of rock and country
2. Nun but the brave
Never underestimate the appeal of a nun who's not afraid
to administer a little discipline (stage show)
3. The Sooner the better: "Oklahoma" at Gammage
(Oklahoma Sooners: get it?)
4. Beach pollution a bummer
5. Historical stable burned, pig is singed at Pioneer
(Do most people know what "singe" means? I vote for
pig escapes barbeque.)
6. S. Mountain perk (Article featuring several hikes people can take at South Mountain Park.)
7. Timely hits brighten D-Backs' foul mood
8. The great Wal of retail
9. Companies hop on brand wagon
Enough with cute and clever. You're here for ideas, and the URLs below are packed with ideas to help you write headings tightly and brightly.
Writing Effective and Eye Catching Headlineshttp://tutorials.beginners.co.uk/read/id/28Writing Headlines People Will Readhttp://www.webreference.com/content/writing/headlines.htmlAction Verbs: Alphabetical Listinghttp://www.quintcareers.com/action_alpha.htmlTop 10 Headline Starters: You Tubehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O96bhjP68OEHow to Write Headlines That Sellhttp://www.database101.com/wordpress/2011/05/how-to-write-headlines-that-sell/